Paralympian Jody Cundy announced as Strictly Come Dancing contestant

This morning, the BBC announced that decorated Paralympian Jody Cundy CBE will be taking part in 2023’s edition of Strictly Come Dancing. This autumn, Cundy, having won eight Olympic gold medals and 23 world titles, is turning his focus to the elusive golden glitterball trophy.

In a BBC statement, Cundy said: “​​Excited to be welcomed into the Strictly family and throw myself head first into the world of ballroom dancing. So far away from what I’m used to, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and pushing myself way out of my comfort zone, especially as I’m always last onto the dance floor.”

Cundy is a track phenomenon; he holds the record in the flying 200m, the 1km time trial, and has won 14 consecutive titles in the MC4 kilo time trial, the latest of which he won just last week at the Glasgow World Championships. With so much practice going around in circles on the velodrome, we anticipate he will excel in the Viennese Waltz.

Cundy was born with a deformed right foot which was amputated at the age of three, and he’s gone on to become one of the most celebrated Paralympians. As well as honorary degrees from Anglia Ruskin University and the University of Hertfordshire, he has been awarded the MBE, and subsequently the OBE and CBE. Anticipating this new challenge, Cundy said, “Can’t wait to get stuck in, bring on the glitter and sequins!”